According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses. What’s more, Utah has been credited as the most pro-small business state in America, thanks to our state’s pro-business initiatives and support systems. Each month, the Salt Lake Chamber will highlight a small business in Utah to emphasize its importance in our economy and encourage local support.

Over five years ago, Heidi Christensen underwent a number of knee surgeries that completely altered her mobility and strength. Frustrated, Heidi was willing to try anything to get her movement back. Luckily, she didn’t have to look far — she found her answer in pilates.

“My journey with pilates transformed my life,” Heidi said. “And it made me passionate about sharing its benefits with others.”

So, Heidi and her husband, Collin, decided to team up and do just that. Heidi had 20 years of experience in marketing and 15 years of experience being a realtor, while Collin had more than 13 years of leadership, business operations and management knowledge. Together, their combined skill and passion for helping others was the perfect recipe for opening a BODYBAR Pilates studio. 

“Our business has given us the opportunity to turn our passion for fitness and wellness into a rewarding venture,” said Collin. “It allows us to work together as a couple, combine our diverse skill sets and make a difference in people’s lives by promoting healthier lifestyles.”

Because of Heidi’s personal experience of falling in love with pilates, the couple wanted to be sure that their business was no ordinary fitness space. They were determined to make BODYBAR Pilates a place that anyone could visit. 

“Our vision for BODYBAR Pilates is to create a welcoming and inclusive space where people of all fitness levels can enjoy the benefits of Reformer Pilates,” Heidi said. “We’re not a professional athletes-only space. Our goal is to improve our clients’ strength, flexibility and overall well-being, no matter what your experience level or body type.”

With BODYBAR, Heidi and Collin get to experience the benefits of being small business owners. Their business makes it possible for them to contribute to the community and local economy — all while doing what they love.

“Small businesses are essential to us because they represent a platform for pursuing our entrepreneurial dream and making a positive impact on our community,” Collin said. “We believe in the power of small businesses to create jobs, foster innovation and bring unique services to the market.”

Since opening BODYBAR, Heidi has had the opportunity to see people mirror her own journey with pilates. She’s bonded with clients, and when they start to feel better, Heidi feels more and more accomplished.

“I love being able to connect with our community and build meaningful relationships with our clients,” Heidi said. “It means I get to personally witness the positive impact that Reformer Pilates has on people and be a part of their fitness journey.”

Although running their small business has been a dream come true for the Christensens, the process still comes with its fair share of challenges. Luckily, they’ve found a home in Utah’s business community, along with lots of support.

“Through the Chamber, we have networking opportunities, promotional platforms and advocacy in government matters we wouldn’t have had otherwise,” said Collin. “They provide resources like workshops and market insights, boosting business operations.”

Next time you need a workout, consider trying something new, just like Heidi did at the beginning of her own journey. Moving your body and supporting small businesses at the same time is a win-win!

BODYBAR Pilates in Salt Lake City is devoted to helping you find the ideal workout at just the right intensity to meet (and crush) your fitness goals. Click here to support their small business.